Interview with Brenda Maxfield

I want to welcome the talented Brenda Maxfield today. She’s here talking about her recent book releases including Lizbet’s Lie.

1. In Lizbet’s Lie, you explored a strict religious community and its effects on teenagers. What drew you to this setting?

Lizbet was raped and then sent off to suffer out her pregnancy basically alone and as an outcast. At first, it all seemed so heartless. But the more I wrote, the more the true story emerged.

Within the confines of her religious community, there was no other option but to send her off. The increased crisis comes when Lizbet starts to question the belief system that sent her away. My heart ached and ached as I wrote her story. Whoa, it hurt.

2. You’ve released four books this year!​ How do you juggle multiple writing projects at once?

Sonya, I about did myself in! Ha! This year I’m determined to calm down a bit. (Hmmm, not sure that’s possible.) Actually, I’ve slowed a bit with my YA work.

I’m now also writing books for young kids under the pen name Lynda Raymond. I’m having a ball! Now, my challenge is to balance these two genres.

3. What have you learned about writing in the past six months?

I’ve always known the importance of persistence, but I’ve become even more convinced of its importance in the last six months. Writers out there, keep at it! You will publish. You will sell books. You will gain fans. Just keep at it. 🙂

4. In The Return, Tiffany plans to run away. What’s one thing you would tell teens that want to do the same thing?

Please, don’t.

But seriously, my heart goes out to you. I know you wouldn’t even consider running away unless things were drastic. My guess is that you’ve reached the crisis point, probably over and over again, and you’ve absolutely had enough. Please find someone who can help you get out of the mess you’re in. (And I’m deeply aware that many, many times the messes are NOT your fault!)

Believe me that there are adults out there who would be honored to listen to you and to help you. Keep looking – they are there, and you will find them.

5. Which one of the Ocean Mist books was the hardest to write and why?

Probably Cornered. I have such compassion for Courtney who struggles to hold the entire family together. I’ve had students who are in the same position – having to be adults and “parents” as teens. I can’t imagine how difficult that is.

6. What’s been the best moment of your writing career so far?

The best moment is always when someone writes and tells me that one of my books has touched his/her heart. I am so blessed and honored. I love it! Over the years, I’ve been touched by books of other authors, and it’s amazing that I can now do that for readers.

7. What’s your next writing project?

I’m writing Mellie’s story. (She’s the sister of Jason “Fresh Meat” Connor from The Return.) I love it when the character’s story starts to take over the book! I’ve had some surprises with Mellie! And I’m quite smitten with her love interest. 😀

About Brenda Maxfield

My passion is writing! What could be more delicious than inventing new characters and seeing where they take you?

I’m a teacher so I spend most of my waking hours with young people. I love chatting with them and hearing their views on love and life. My students are magical, and I am honored to be part of their lives.

I’ve lived in Honduras, Grand Cayman, and Costa Rica. Presently, I live in Indiana with my husband, Paul. We have two grown children and three precious grandchildren, special delivery from Africa.

When not teaching, I love to hole up in our lake cabin and write — often with a batch of popcorn nearby. (Oh, and did I mention dark chocolate?)

I’m always amazed at how prolific a writer you are, Brenda. Your books are fabulously well written and realistic. So congratulations on your new path into writing for younger children. You are an inspiration!

Enjoyed it Sonya and Brenda! Brenda, your books sound so good (and so different). Congratulations (or should I say Bless your heart?) on getting so many books out so fast, and continued success to you! Amy

Great interview! I love the issues you’re exploring in your books, and can’t wait to see what you’re writing for children. It’s always amazing to me when a writer signs up to a character who is struggling with issues very different than their own. You have to spend a lot of time with them! Your compassionate outlook is serving you well.

Great interview! Nice to ‘meet’ you Brenda – your book sounds very interesting. Kudos to you for being so productive, too. I keep hoping that once my oldest goes off to college next year, that I’ll be able to do the same. We’ll see, I guess. Wishing you much success!

Hi! It’s nice to “meet” you too, Marlo. (BTW, love your name!) I totally get the time constraints issue. You will surely be able to find more time when your oldest goes to college. (Although, it is a constant challenge, isn’t it?) 😀